Understanding Recovery and Your Health
According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), over 60 million people in the U.S. are in recovery from mental health or substance use conditions. Though many find pathways to healing, overdoses claim over 100,000 lives annually, and suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth.
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a treatable condition affecting a person’s brain and behavior, often leading to loss of control over substances like drugs or alcohol. People with SUD may also have other mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder, but one does not necessarily cause the other.
Research points to genetic and environmental factors, like stress or trauma, as contributors to the co-occurrence of SUD and mental health issues. Some may use substances to self-medicate mental health symptoms, but this can worsen symptoms over time. When both conditions are present, treating them at the same time is usually the best approach.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines recovery as a journey in which a person strives to improve their physical and mental health, as well as reach their full potential. A key barrier to recovery is the stigma surrounding these conditions, which can prevent people from seeking help. By overcoming stigma and understanding recovery, we can help others find healing.
Recovery is a lifelong commitment to health and personal growth, that may involve clinical treatment, medications, peer support and self-care. Managing setbacks is a natural part of the process, and often involves the encouragement and support of family, friends and peers. SAMHSA identifies four dimensions of recovery:
Health: Managing disease or symptoms, such as abstaining from alcohol.
Home: Having a stable, safe place to live.
Purpose: Engaging in meaningful daily activities.
Community: Building relationships and social networks that provide support and hope.
How to Find Help
For mental health treatment services, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357), visit the SAMHSA online treatment locator or text your ZIP code to 435748.
If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. In life-threatening situations, call 911.
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